What items should you stockpile to last six weeks?

27 April 2009

What items should you stockpile to last six weeks?

A pandemic wave is expected to last 6-8 weeks in each location.

Water

It is a good idea to stockpile supplies for any emergency. Stock bottled water or store water in plastic containers such as soft drink bottles. Plan to store 4 litres of water per person per day (2 litres for drinking and 2 litres for household use). Water requirements will also depend on other factors such as temperature. In hot seasons an individual’s water requirement may double and children, nursing mothers and those who are ill often require additional supplies. You should store enough water for at least a six-week period, if possible. Water purification kits or filters should be purchased if it is difficult to store large quantities of water.

Food

• Store a six-week supply of non-perishable foods.
  
  
• Select some foods that require no refrigeration in case electricity is temporarily unavailable. As clean water may be limited, choose foods that require little or no water to prepare. Foods that you may consider are:
  
  
  • Ready-to-eat canned meats and soups, fruits and vegetables
    
    
  • Dry goods such as noodles (remember that you will need to allow for enough water to cook these items). Dry cereal, granola, dried fruits and crackers
    
    
  • Canned juices
    
    
  • Peanut butter or nuts
    
    
  • Staples (salt, sugar, pepper, spices, etc.)
    
    
  • High energy foods such as protein or fruit bars
    
    
  • Food for infants — canned or jarred baby food and formula
    
    
  • Comfort/stress foods
    
    
  • Pet food